Is there an ideal position/orientation for an inline fuel filter?

[DJ_Allatoona]

1986 Mercury 75HP on a Starcraft SS.
This is where my inline filter is located: http://i.imgur.com/yAb3JUo.jpg
And this is about the level of fuel inside when I'm running: http://i.imgur.com/474wJfz.jpg
Sometimes when I'm running idle speed for an extended time, and the motor starts to get rough or stall, the fuel filter is dead empty. I use the bulb to fill the filter, then all is good.
Is there such thing as the PERFECT spot for the filter, and should it be oriented differently than I have it?
Or does it matter?

 

[Faztbullet]

The filter will never be full when running, if it(engine) running out of fuel rebuild the fuel pump....

 

[Georgesalmon]

I don't think orientation matters, I've had them in all positions with success. If twas me I might think about a fuel pump rebuild. Could be you have a tiny pin hole or a sticky valve in there that's causing problems at low speed but at high speed its working hard enough to overcome any weakness in the pump. The rebuild kits are fairly inexpensive and they got 'em right here. JMHO

 

[gm280]

If you are really worried about the fuel filter position, you could always remove it and use a splice tube and see. That way you will rule out that as your problem. But I too think you should look towards the fuel pump myself. JMHO!

 

[Woodonglass]

I totally agree, time for a FP rebuild. Pretty easy to do...Even though this is for a 90' 115 hp it should help get you started.

 

[wn6ngp]

I have an inline filter similar to yours in a similar position on my 90hp 1999 motor. It is mostly horizontal but moves around and I never have a problem. I put it there in order to avoid replacing the filter under the cowel that is difficult to access. I agree with others, your pump should have enough oomf to pull fuel thru there although the filter may not ever appear to be totally full.